Derby police call for vertical drinking ban

Police in Derby are calling for a block on any more "vertical drinking" venues — where people mostly stand up to drink — because of an increase in alcohol-related disorder.

Chief superintendent Andy Hough will put an application in to the licensing authority of the council for a cumulative impact zone, which means councils are allowed to refuse more licences.

"We are saturated with vertical drinking establishments," said Hough. "There is a dense cluster in a small area in the city and we don't need any more.

"The majority of venues stay open very late, offer generally cheaper alcohol and loud music. People can't sit down and engage in proper conversation — so they drink, get drunk and cause violence."

Hough said there have been 400 more incidents in his division this year than 2009 including common assaults, actual bodily harm, abusive behaviour and general alcohol-related disorder. "There is a link between alcohol and disorder — I've no doubt it is alcohol induced.

"I have no issue with licences being granted to responsible people. We need to concentrate on the early evening economy with a proportionate range of different types of leisure facilities across the city."

However, Morning Advertiser legal editor Peter Coulson said vertical drinking venues could not be singled out under a cumulative impact zone, which covers all types of establishments.

"A cumulative impact zone has to be decided on by the licensing authority," said Coulson. "If they declare one, then they are entitled to refuse licences unless the applicant can show it will not adversely affect any licensing objectives.

"The licensing authority must consider all the circumstances and consult with the trade and other authorities before granting a cumulative impact zone."